Selva Terra Island Resort
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Selva Terra Island Resort

Cala Mia Island Resort
Traveller (561)
Our last sunset at Cala Mia - view over the pool
Pool & Beach (150)
Cala Mia Island Resort
Videos (1)

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About

#1 of 2 hotels in Isla Boca Brava
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Location
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
This magical small boutique Island Resort resort is located in Panama on the tip of a pristine island surrounded by untouched tropical palm-lined beaches. Just 60 miles south of Costa Rica, the resort is situated on Isla Boca Brava on Panama's Pacific Coast. Only a 15-minute boat ride from Boca Chica, bordering on the unspoiled, for-you-to-discover Panama's Marine Park "Archipielago de Chiriqui". The Island is the perfect jumping-off point to world-renowned sport fishing grounds: Coiba's Hannibal Bank or Islas Secas; Islas Los Ladrones for scuba diving and for surfing: Morro Negrito and Isla Afuera! The luxury all-inclusive resort consists of 13 beautiful Bungalows each with its own thatched roof rancho and all within 10 meters from the ocean or the beach/bay-side.
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Property amenities
Free private parking nearby
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Yoga classes
Pool
Bar / lounge
Beach
Boating
Airport transportation
Wifi
Yoga room
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary welcome drink
Snack bar
Special diet menus
Poolside bar
Canoeing
Diving
Game room
Hiking
Horseback riding
Snorkelling
Squash
Water sport equipment rentals
Canoeing offsite
Darts
Entertainment staff
Evening entertainment
Fishing
Karaoke
Table tennis
Walking tours
Board games / puzzles
Spa
Couples massage
Facial treatments
Foot bath
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Light therapy
Massage
24-hour security
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Concierge
Currency exchange
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
Doorperson
First aid kit
Umbrella
24-hour check-in
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Room features
Air conditioning
Private beach
Dining area
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
Walk-in shower
Complimentary toiletries
Sofa
Bottled water
Laptop safe
Private bathrooms
Hair dryer
Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
3.5 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Quiet
Family
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish

Reviews
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Detailed Reviews
Catherine M wrote a review Aug 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I had the pleasure of staying at Selva Terra in July as my uncle celebrated his 40th birthday there. I was really looking forward to this trip as I’d never been to Central America before, and it was long awaited. Everyone in our group were friends and family and we flew in from all over the world. Me and my husband flew in from London (12 hours flight) and decided to stay overnight in Panama City. The resort took care of all the logistics even in the capital. When we got off the plane, we were greeted by a lovely lady who took us through customs and brought us to our driver. We spent the night in the Sofitel and the next morning did some souvenir shopping and checked out the Panama Canal. Then we took the domestic flight to David to head to the island. I 100% recommend asking them for assistance in Panama City, it removes the logistical headache from travelling or feeling lost when you arrive, which is worse when you’ve travelled so far.
When we arrived in David, the journey to the resort took around 1 hour which went by really fast as the boat ride to the island is just stunning. Once we arrived, we had our welcome drink, checked in, and were given a briefing on the tours during our stay. Everything was really organised, you can tell they specialise in group bookings. We did the monkey hike, surfed and kayaked near the mangroves and did an island hopping day too. On our rest day, we had a barbeque on their beach, played volleyball and swam.. you have the whole beach to yourself. This part of the world is truly magical, the resort is private and exclusive, there are plenty of activities, the area is not touristy and you really feel like you are in paradise. I would return in a heartbeat.
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Date of stay: July 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
291larrym wrote a review Jan 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I joined a group of 12 guys for a fishing trip and discovered our resort was not just a great fishing venue but outstanding in all areas.
The fishing boats were well equiped and in great condition. The rod, reels and tackle were in as new condition the boat captains and mates skilled and helpful. Our rooms were very nice and made up daily. The meals were outstanding and exceeded our expectations. Each day we were suprised with gourmet meals perfectly prepared.
My many thanks to David (owner), Gladys, Alex and the rest of the staff for making our trip outstanding. If something needed to be improved they reacted quickly to solve any issue.
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Date of stay: January 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
carlbett wrote a review Mar 2022
Palmetto, Florida
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I almost never leave reviews, but Cala Maria Island Resort/Panama Nautical Club and its staff were so outstanding, in every regard, that they deserve one. From arrival in Panama City to departure from same, and all events in between, this is a truly first class act. The lodging was spectacular, modern and immaculate, the food better than that in almost all high end restaurants, and the staff (both on shore and fishing boat crews) were friendly, helpful and knew their stuff. I spent 4 of the 5 days at the lodge fishing, my girlfriend spent the time on short reading, bird watching, doing yoga, getting massages, and kayaking. It worked great for both of us, and we can't wait to go back. Carl B
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Date of stay: February 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Room Tip: Every bungalow has "magazine worthy" view.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kate S wrote a review Jan 2025
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This place is absolutely incredible! The yoga in the morning is the best i've ever experienced, and the adventure trips are so much fun!
Especially the howler monkey hike and surfing.
Every single guide is so skilled and impressive.
The food is unbelievably good and their ability to remember and how much they care about providing you with a wonderful meal in line with any food sensitivities/allergies carefully noted to avoid; the staff truly cares so much, it makes you feel incredibly special. Carlos especially was fantastic to chat with and be around. His drinks were incredible and he gave the most fantastic recommendations for the rest of our travels in Panama city. The care and kindness you will experience here is unmatched.
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Date of stay: January 2025
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Couple of Reviews wrote a review Feb 2024
London, United Kingdom
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My partner and I had an incredible experience at Selva Terra Resort. The entire team provided amazing service throughout our stay. The cuisine was exquisite, and it's clear they put in hard work to achieve excellent results. We particularly enjoyed the addition of pumpkin cake to the menu—it was a delightful surprise per request in the moment! The amenities were pure luxury, with a private beach, swimming pool, and personalized excursions. Samantha and David were exceptionally helpful, and we wish them both all the success in their future endeavors. Highly recommend! BUT I'm secretly hoping they'll add a chocolate fountain next time!"
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
seth h wrote a review Jan 2025
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Our family of did 8 days here over Christmas break 2024 to dive and fish. Everything about this place is exceptional. The wildlife is amazing. We dove 5 days and never saw another dive boat - just tons and tons of big creatures - turtles, sharks, dolphins and huge jacks and snappers. Michael and Samantha were amazing guides. Fishing here lives up to its reputation - Kidd and Kevin put us on topwater tuna and a monster marlin. Non-stop action the two days we fished. The food and service is top notch. Carlos is a maestro at the bar and a great front-of-house and the chefs do a great job. You get the feeling here that the team is really focused on a great experience. We will go back ASAP.
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Date of stay: December 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marcia H wrote a review Jan 2020
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I hesitate to write this review for fear it will be harder to return to this fantastic hotel and area. We had the sense we were in Tamarindo 20 years ago or the travel destination of the year for 2025. Every aspect of our stay exceeded our expectations. Small in size but big in heart and in a sense of family. Feels like most guests are here for fishing or scuba but we were exceptions who just wanted to relax in an environment of natural beauty with fantastic food and a relaxed vibe. Cala Mia provided. From a seamless water transfer to the site to our first meal on the beach we were hooked. We enjoyed inshore fishing, snorkeling, rafting, surfing lessons, wakeboarding, runs and hikes on island trails, kayaking to private beaches and on a guided tour through the mangroves, a cooking class, massages, paddleboarding, swimming, yoga and a lot of reading on the beach or in a hammock or on our deck. Every meal was fantastic meal prepared just for you and the bartender was a treasure who strayed off the menu of drinks without a qualm and then remembered our unique mixes and tastes. The rest of the staff worked hard to accommodate your requests and were all working together as a team. There was no sense of hierarchy or formality such everyone working together to insure a great experience for all. The presence of the canine family of Draco, Amber and Winfield added to the sense of community. We especially enjoyed the surprise birthday dinner in our villa including balloons and a world class meal and chocolate cake to the sound of the surf pounding just outside. All of the equipment from snorkel gear to boats to watersport equipment to furniture was top quality and well maintained. The natural beauty of the archipelago is stunning and the hotel is set on a bluff in between two wonderful beaches giving spectacular views from almost every step or spot. We wondered every day how it was possible that such a beautiful physical environment remained so underdeveloped but were so grateful we were able to enjoy it before it joined the mainstream of vacation destinations. To top it off we felt the package price we enjoyed offered fantastic value. We will definitely return only a question of when!

P.S. Having read the few critical views, in hindsight, the business model here is to invest in high quality staff, food, materials and equipment. Am sure one could find a cheaper fishing charter or surf lesson or dinner if one self-arranged or self-catered but the quality would be lower and it would undercut the holistic experience as well as the ability of the hotel to deliver all of the above to its clients who understand the value of such an experience.
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Date of stay: December 2019
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: Would recommend package with all inclusive meal and drink option as well as activities. 3 BR...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Cala_Mia_Resort, General Manager at Selva Terra Island Resort
Responded 5 Feb 2020
Thank you so much for your words and for understanding the value of our efforts! We love making each guest feel pleased and spoiled and based on your review we can say we succeeded - thank you!! We hope you will be able to come back with your amazing family. Cala Mia Family:)
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
bridget l wrote a review Jun 2022
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Never thought I would ever stay on a private island but an opportunity to go with 21 others came up this past April. We traveled from Pittsburgh to Atlanta to Panama City. There is a short plane ride from Panama City to David, then an hour drive to a boat ramp. The boat ride is about 20 minutes, then you are in paradise. David and his team made sure our week was perfect from the casitas to the dining room to the fishing and the pool. I took advantage of scuba diving on the first day. The water was a little murky but Fred and Team made sure we had a good day. I fished the next 3 days. Because of the time of year, there was a 1-1/2 hour boat ride out to where the yellowfin tuna were biting. Our boat didn't do so well the first day but by the second and third, we caught yellowfin and yellow tail snapper. Other boats in our party caught huge red snapper, mahi mahi, wahoo and more tuna. My nephews caught a sailfish and marlin but being out of season, they were returned to the ocean. The boat crew with Fred worked hard to ensure our days were fun. I highly recommend motion sickness remedies if you are not used to being out in the water all day.
We caught plenty of fish for everyone to bring back some to the states (we took our own Yeti's). Those that didn't fish had a wonderful time hiking to the howling monkeys, snorkeling, spa services, horseback riding or lounging in the pool. The food was pretty good and the drinks were fantastic. The employees really wanted us to have a great time and made sure every detail was taken care of.
Highly recommend bug spray, hat for the sun, sunscreen.
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Date of stay: April 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Room Tip: We had the beach house, which was amazing
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
candcschafer wrote a review May 2022
Sydney, Australia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cala Mia ticks all the boxes for a great holiday location , there's something for everyone whether it's scuba diving , inshore fishing , or offshore fishing or just relaxing by the pool you wont get bored. The food on offer is the best. so would i recommend Cala Mia for a holiday I most definitely would, David and his team go above and beyond to make your stay one to remember
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Date of stay: May 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wadeun wrote a review Jan 2023
Sisters, Oregon
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Simply Phenomenal experience. Unfortunately, the Marlin bite wasn't on for us, but the entire staff including ownership and management went out of their way to ensure our little group was attended to. The food was great, resort itself fantastic, service second to none, boats\fishing equipment is well taken care of and the captains spare no expense\effort to get on the fish. An to kick it all over top, the staff made a birthday cake for me after finding out I was there to celebrate with customized decorations. We'll be back.
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Date of stay: January 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Room Tip: any, the place is amazing
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
…
CMDPJL asked a question Mar 2019
Galveston, Texas4 contributions
What kind of light beer do you offer?
Answer from Cala_Mia_Resort
Isla Boca Brava, Panama64 contributions
Here is the List of beers we have: Local: Balboa & Panama International: Corona & Heineken Craft beer from Boquete: Smash and Agua Selva (American Pale Ale)
CMDPJL asked a question Mar 2019
Galveston, Texas4 contributions
Do you have a gym or access to one? Do you serve Coors Light?
Answer from Cala_Mia_Resort
Isla Boca Brava, Panama64 contributions
We have the ocean for 'all you can swim' workout. Paddle boards and kayaks complimentary of use. We have great hiking trails for walking or running. Yoga and workout trainer to train for interval trainings to use your own body weight for fast lean and toned body... But we do not have the gym.
Answer from Nancy S
Juno Beach, FL44 contributions25 helpful votes
Yes, not to worry about your rental car. Like the answer above; park beside the church. Pay $2 a day. Use Google Maps or Waze to drive to the dock in Boca Chica. Cala mia will provably have arranged for a boat tot pick you up at the dock. Once you are almost at the end of the road , stop and the parking is on your rifgt. There is a local arrangement. Have a wonderful time in Cala Mia. I am an expat who lives in Boquete.
hobiecatsailor asked a question Dec 2017
Michigan1,148 contribution324 helpful votes
Is it possible to fly direct to David from San Jose, Costa Rica?
Answer from Cala_Mia_Resort
Isla Boca Brava, Panama64 contributions
Hello, They do not have direct flights From SJO to David. You would have to connect in PTY and then fly to David. Hope this helps you out.
Jeff F wrote a tip Apr 2024
St. George, Utah18 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"If you hike the hill to see the howler monkeys make sure and coat yourself with bug spray. The mosquitoes and no see em bugs will eat you up"
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wadeun wrote a tip Jan 2023
Sisters, Oregon10 contributions3 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"any, the place is amazing"
Read full review
bridget l wrote a tip Jun 2022
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania45 contributions4 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"We had the beach house, which was amazing"
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PamelaTY wrote a tip May 2022
New York City, New York27 contributions14 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Note that it takes a flight from Panama City to David, an hour long van ride and a short boat trip to reach the resort."
Read full review
Michael J wrote a tip Apr 2022
port orange, United States10 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"All rooms are in private villas with balcony overlooking the ocean"
Read full review
…
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Isla Boca Brava area.
ALSO KNOWN AS
boutique hotel chiriqui
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Cala Mia Boutique Resort
LOCATION
PanamaChiriqui ProvinceIsla Boca Brava
NUMBER OF ROOMS
13
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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SELVA TERRA ISLAND RESORT | UPDATED 2025 Hotel Reviews (Isla Boca Brava, Panama) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Selva Terra Island Resort
What are some of the property amenities at Selva Terra Island Resort?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Selva Terra Island Resort?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a dining area, and a seating area.
What food & drink options are available at Selva Terra Island Resort?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and a poolside bar during their stay.
Is parking available at Selva Terra Island Resort?
Yes, free private parking nearby and free public parking nearby are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Selva Terra Island Resort?
Conveniently located restaurants include Bocas del Mar Restaurant and Bar, La Promesa, and La Costa Boca Chica.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Selva Terra Island Resort?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and yoga classes during their stay.
Does Selva Terra Island Resort have airport transportation?
Yes, Selva Terra Island Resort offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Selva Terra Island Resort?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Does Selva Terra Island Resort have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the harbour view available here.
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